MONDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER
On this evening’s programme presenter Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh takes a snapshot of eleven hundred years of Limerick history which can be traced back to the 9th century when it was founded by the Vikings, who established a settlement along the banks of the River Shannon. Bláthnaid hears about the Vikings who came to Limerick, battled, but ultimately settled down and assimilated into Gaelic society. She also explores how Limerick is capitalizing on its historic past in terms of tourism. All this with the backdrop of an exhibition of 1100 years of Limerick history curated by Limerick Museum and housed in the magnificent St Mary’s Cathedral – the oldest building still in use in the city.
WEDNESDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER
This special programme celebrates the Connemara Pony on this centenary year of the Connemara Breeders’ Society. At the Show in Clifden, presenter Anne Cassin chats to Ann Marie Conroy, Vice President of the Society, meets some winners and their owners, and also talks to Padraic Heanue who runs a business sourcing ponies for buyers in Ireland and abroad. On a visit to the Cashel Bay Connemara Pony stud, breeder Robbie Fallon points out the characteristics of a good Connemara pony. At Kylemore Abbey, she sees how the ponies introduced in recent years have become a big hit with the nuns and the visitors. Plus, in Ballyconneally Anne meets some riders on Trá Mór, who take their ponies to the beach for some downtime.
FRIDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER
Lough Sheelin is a stunning freshwater lake located in the heart of Ireland, spanning three counties – Cavan, Meath, and Westmeath. This picturesque lake, covering an area of approximately 4,500 acres, is renowned for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity and also for being a top angling destination. It is famous for Wild Brown Trout and presenter Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh meets up with angler Neddy Clinton who shows us the skills of fly fishing and shares his local knowledge of Lough Sheelin. There is a folk tale associated with the wonderful Lough Sheelin which has been brought to life through the art work of a Cavan woman. Reporter Valerie Waters went to meet her and her family and discovered the legend of Orwin and Sebana.
